Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Maharashtra is home to five Jyotirlingas, Grishneshwar Temple being one of the oldest in the lot. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva and is revered as the last Jyotirlinga among the twelve. With a rich historical and spiritual significance, the temple has a rich religious heritage, especially with its vibrant culture, deep-rooted devotion and architecture. Since the temple is located near Ellora Caves, it draws a lot of tourists throughout the year.
Quick Details Grishneshwar Temple
Address: Ghrushneshwar, Ghrishneshwar Temple Rd, Ellora, Maharashtra 431102
Timings: 5:30 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Aurangabad Railway Station
About Grishneshwar Temple
Photo: sowrirajan s / Wikimedia Commons
Alternatively known as the Ghushmeshwar Temple, Grishneshwar Temple is one of the five Jyotirlingas in Maharashtra. The temple is so ancient that there are mentions of it in several ancient Hindu texts, including the Shiva Purana. The term “Grishneshwar” translates to “Lord of Compassion,” which is associated with the temple’s folklore and legends. According to historical evidence, the temple was originally constructed in the 13th century and it was later restored in the 18th century by Ahilyabai Holkar, the Maratha queen renowned for restoring numerous Hindu temples.
How To Reach
Photo: Savannah Rivka / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Ghushmeshwar Mandir is conveniently located near major cities like Aurangabad, which makes the temple quite easily accessible via different modes of transportation.
By Air: Aurangabad Airport is your nearest airport. There are regular flights available from major cities and from the airport, you can find taxis and public buses to get to the temple.
By Rail: Aurangabad Railway Station is your nearest railhead, which is connected to all the nearby cities. There are taxis available outside the station to take you to the temple.
By Road: Ghushmeshwar Mandir is located about 30 km from Aurangabad, so you can hire a cab or take a state transport bus from Aurangabad.
Places To Visit Around Grishneshwar Temple
After your darshan, you can head to explore some of the nearby sightseeing spots.
1. Ellora Caves
Photo: Arundhati Pathak / Unsplash
Ellora Caves is one of the nearest tourist attractions to the temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. This comprises 34 rock-cut caves and temples, each holding a lot of spiritual and religious significance. There are monasteries inside the temple as well. While inside, ensure that you also visit the Kailasa Temple, which is also dedicated to Lord Shiva, made by cutting a massive monolithic rock.
Distance From Grineshwar Temple: 1.1 Km
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM (Tuesday closed)
2. Daulatabad Fort
Photo: Lakshmeesha BS / Wikimedia Commons
If you are an adventure and history enthusiast, a trip down to the Daulatabad Fort is a must too. The fortress was originally named Deogiri Fort, which served as the capital of the Yadavas, then the Delhi Sultanate, and later a secondary capital of the Ahmadnagar Sultanate. Dating back to the 12th century, the robust construction and architecture of the fort depict why it was one of the most powerful forts back in the day.
Distance From Grineshwar Temple: 13.9 Km
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
3. Bibi Ka Maqbara
Photo: Pranaysahu26 / Wikimedia Commons
Another historical tourist attraction that needs to be part of your travel itinerary is Bibi Ka Maqbara. It is located in Aurangabad and was reportedly commissioned by Aurangzeb’s son, Prince Azam Shah who wanted it built to commemorate his mother, Dilras Banu Begum. The tomb was constructed in 1660 and to this day, it stands as a symbol of history.
Distance From Grineshwar Temple: 30 Km
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Being a popular pilgrimage site in Maharashtra, there are numerous resorts and hotels available around the Ghushmeshwar Mandir that you can explore. Some of the best properties include the Kailas Hotel, Hotel Ellora View and Hotel Grand.
Where To Eat
Photo: Arundhati1312 / Wikimedia commons / Image For Representation Only
After you finish your darshan at the Ghushmeshwar Mandir, you are bound to get hungry after the long wait. There are several local food joints and proper fine dining restaurants that you can check out while there. Some of the popular ones include Kailash Hotel Restaurant, Ellora Quality Restaurant and Garikipati Restaurant.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Rajesh Dhungana / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For a great visit to the Ghushmeshwar Mandir, be sure to keep the following pointers in mind:
- Plan your visit during the winter months so that the long queues are easy to wait in.
- Photography is not allowed inside the inner temple complex, including the shrine but you can take Ghushmeshwar Mandir photos from the exterior.
- To avoid crowds and also for a comfortable darshan, visit during early morning.
- If you are planning a whole day of sightseeing, carry water and snacks with you.
Grishneshwar Temple is a popular temple in Maharashtra, renowned for its history, divinity and architectural beauty. If you want to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the temple, a visit down to this temple is an absolute must. You can plan things ahead of time with TripXL for the ultimate travel and spiritual experience.
Cover Photo: Rashmi.parab / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
